Hey, for those out there that might have the $17.99/month Vonage plan that allows for 500 total minutes, I have figured out a way to technically make those 500 mins go farther.

Sign up for a Google Voice account (www.google.com/voice). This service is both free & allows for free long distant calling that can be set up with any phone number and/or provider. Once you have a Google Voice account, go into your account online and click the 'call' button. It then asks for two items:

1. The number you want to call (can be any US area code)2. The phone to ring to make this connection (which would be your Vonage number)

Once you hit the 'Connect' button, it rings your Vonage number. After you pick up, it then connects you to your "call" number. Since this is essentially an incoming call to your Vonage number, no minutes will be deducted from your 500 min plan & you can talk as long as you want.

I know, not as convenient as a regular call, but could make those mins go further if needed & used primarily when you know you are gonna be making a lengthy long distant call to friends and/or family. Also, getting a Google Voice account might prove to be tricky right now too since its 'invite only'. You have to submit your e-mail address and wait & hope they send you an invite link.

I have been doing this for several months now with my $17.99 plan. Been working great & just thought I'd pass that along to others here in case anyone was interested.